The prop was part of the Leeds side that defeated their arch rivals in last season's engage Super League Grand Final.

It was his last game before leaving for Bradford Bulls and so he has been watching on as the two sides prepare for tonight's third showpiece tussle in as many years.

Saints, beaten by Leeds at Old Trafford in both 2007 and 2008, have also been ousted by the champions as League Leaders this season. The first time they have done so in four years.

The rivalry between the two has escalated with some fiery exchanges since and James Graham refused to shake hands with Leeds opponents at the end of last month's contest.

"Saints always thought they were the better side and Leeds have beat them in the last two Grand Finals," said Scruton."They went on and beat them again the last time they met at Headingley and also finished top of the league.

"I think that got to Saints a bit. There wasn't any of this last year when I was there. I don't know where it started to creep in but it feels just like sour grapes on their part to be honest."

A robust front rower himself, who thrived in the pressurised atmosphere last October, Scruton expects the game to quickly boil over again this evening.

"It was a real physical game last time out and obviously that's going to spice a few people up," he added. "Both teams have fiery characters. I'm sure JP ( Jamie Peacock) will be out to get into them early on and Luke Burgess has assured me that he's going to come flying in and belt someone with a big tackle as he soon as he gets on the pitch.

"I've spoken to a couple of the Leeds players this week, especially Luke.

"He didn't get to play last year as he was 18th man but I've just told him this will be the best day of his life – go out and enjoy it.

"Whatever happens, it's going to be an awesome game."

Scruton, 24, believes Leeds will achieve an historic third successive Grand Final success in Manchester.

"It helps when you've won the last two and everyone knows what to expect," he explained. "I don't think Leeds will let anything get to them and it always helps having people like JP and Keith (Senior) keeping everyone in check.

"They are experienced players and they won't let the emotion affect them. I can't see anything other than a Leeds win on the night.

"I'm going on the vibes I'm getting from them; they've been confident for a while and play their best rugby when it matters most.

"As for the whole occasion, it's hard to explain. When you walk out of that tunnel, lined up side by side, all the fireworks go off and you hear that crowd... it's what you've been building up to all season.

"It doesn't matter who you play. It's just an amazing experience that will stay with you forever."